May 31, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has called on Nigerians to remain calm amid growing concerns over reported xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, warning that any form of retaliation against South African citizens, businesses, or diplomatic interests in Nigeria will not be tolerated.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, disclosed that security and intelligence agencies have reviewed the situation and are taking proactive measures to maintain peace, law, and order across the country.
According to the police, the security review followed a Joint Intelligence Board meeting held on May 18, 2026, under the leadership of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The Force assured Nigerians that there is currently no immediate security threat that should cause panic, noting that the Federal Government is actively engaging relevant authorities through diplomatic, intelligence, and security channels to address the situation and protect Nigerians both at home and abroad.
While acknowledging public outrage over the reported attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, the police stressed that citizens must not take the law into their own hands.
The statement warned that reprisals, violence, destruction of property, hate speech, intimidation, or any action capable of threatening public peace and national security are criminal offences and will be met with the full weight of the law.
The NPF further emphasized that all individuals legally residing in Nigeria, regardless of nationality, are entitled to protection under the country’s laws. It warned that any attempt to target South African nationals, diplomatic missions, businesses, or other lawful interests in Nigeria would be treated as a criminal act.
The police also urged the public to avoid spreading unverified or inflammatory information, especially on social media, cautioning that false reports could escalate tensions and undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts.
To prevent any breakdown of law and order, security has been strengthened around critical national assets, foreign missions, and other strategic locations nationwide.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the Nigeria Police Force urged citizens to remain vigilant, peaceful, and law-abiding while relevant government agencies continue to manage the situation.
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